When I was writing my first Viola Shipman novel, I never dreamed what would transpire, and that The Edge of Summer would be my EIGHTH novel! I also never dreamed that writing fiction inspired by my grandma’s heirlooms and memory—novels that are meant as a tribute to family and our elders, to inspire hope and remind readers of what matters most in the world—would resonate so deeply with so many. I am forever grateful and humbled.
Writing a book is a solitary task, but publishing is not. There are many, as always, to thank:
Wendy Sherman: my literary agent, since day and book one. The best. Period. (And thank you, Callie Dietrich, for all your behind-the-scenes assistance and expertise.)
Susan Swinwood: there is no more special working relationship an author has than with his or her editor. I feel as if I were always meant to be paired with Susan, my editor AND the editorial director at my publisher. We are kindred spirits and artistic souls. Her edits are always keenly insightful and pinpoint exactly how to make my work better while also granting me the creative leeway to determine that direction. Every reader needs to know she makes each and every book I write infinitely better, and I’m beyond grateful I have the opportunity to work with her on four new books.
The Graydon House Team: I am continuously grateful to work with one of the best teams in publishing. Each member does his or her job not only with great talent but also great grace. Huge, heartfelt thanks to Randy Chan, Pam Osti, Lindsey Reeder, Heather Connor, Leah Morse, Linette Kim and countless others.
To my invisible, secret weapons: Kathleen Carter of Kathleen Carter Communications, I cannot express enough gratitude for all you do on behalf of my books. When you see me on TV, or my books mentioned on TV or social media, thank Kathleen. Danielle Noe is a huge reason my books continue to reach more and more readers. You may never see her, but you will see her work—and importance—everywhere you look. Meg Walker, thank you for your marketing expertise, your author and Bookstagrammer outreach and influence, and your friendship.
Jenny Meyer: thank you for all you’ve done over the past fifteen years to help me reach readers all across the world—twenty-one languages and counting.
Gary Edwards: I would not be who, or where, I am without you. I simply would not be.
My readers: I write these novels because they call to me. They mean the world to me. But, above all else, I write these novels for you, and only for you. That will never change. I can never express how much you mean to me. I am not simply an author. You are not simply readers. You are my friends. We are a family. And each and every day you remind me—as my grandma did—of what’s most important in life.
Each other.